Paste Puff for Tarts, Etc

Ingredients

• 1 pound flour
• ½ pound butter
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• water as needed

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder, reserving 3 tablespoons for later.

2. Rub ⅙ of the butter into the flour, adding just enough water to form a smooth paste.

3. Roll out the paste to 1 inch thick, then divide it in half.

4. Roll out one half until very thin, less than ¼ inch thick.

5. Break the second portion of butter into small bits and place over the paste, leaving a 1-inch margin.

6. Dredge with flour, fold in thirds, and roll out to 1 inch thick.

7. Repeat with the other half using the remaining butter.

8. Stack the two pieces and roll out to ½ inch thick.

9. Fold the paste and place it between two dishes in a cool place until the next day.

10. When rolling out for tarts, keep the grain consistent for best results.